Prepare to elevate your sneaker game with the art of lacing Jordan 4s, the iconic footwear that has captivated sneaker enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you’re rocking the classic “Bred” colorway or a modern iteration, mastering the lacing technique is essential to unleash the true potential of this legendary silhouette. So, let’s embark on a comprehensive guide that will transform your Jordan 4s from mere footwear into a statement of style and precision.
To initiate the lacing process, gather your laces and identify the bottom eyelets on both the medial and lateral sides of the sneaker. Thread the laces through these eyelets, ensuring they exit from the inside of the shoe. Then, cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next row of eyelets, this time exiting from the outside of the shoe. Continue this crisscross pattern until you reach the top eyelets.
As you approach the top eyelets, consider the desired tightness of your lace. If you prefer a snug fit, pull the laces taut and tighten them securely. Alternatively, if you favor a looser fit, leave some slack in the laces, allowing for greater foot movement. Once the laces are tied, tuck the excess under the tongue or use a lace lock to keep them in place. With the laces perfectly adjusted, your Jordan 4s will not only provide unparalleled comfort but also showcase the iconic Jumpman logo in all its glory.
Selecting the Right Laces
The laces play a crucial role in the overall aesthetics and functionality of your Jordan 4s. Here are some key considerations when selecting the right laces:
Material:
Round laces: These classic laces are made from a durable material like cotton or polyester and provide a traditional look.
Flat laces: These laces are typically wider and flatter than round laces, offering a modern and stylish touch. They can add a contrasting texture to your sneakers.
Rope laces: Made from thick, loosely woven material, rope laces create a unique and chunky look. They are ideal for adding a touch of edginess to your Jordans.
Length:
Choosing the correct lace length is essential for a proper fit and optimal lacing style. Here’s a quick guide to help you determine the appropriate length:
| Shoe Size | Lace Length |
|---|---|
| 6-8 | 45 inches |
| 8.5-10 | 54 inches |
| 10.5-12 | 63 inches |
| 12.5-14 | 72 inches |
Color:
The color of the laces can significantly impact the overall look of your Jordans. Here are a few options to consider:
- Matching color: Opting for laces that match the color of your sneakers creates a cohesive and monochromatic look.
- Contrasting color: Choosing laces in a different color adds a pop of contrast and makes the laces stand out.
- Multi-colored laces: Experiment with colorful laces to inject some vibrancy and personality into your sneakers.
- If you want a more secure knot, you can double-knot the laces.
- You can also use a lace lock to keep the laces in place.
- If you’re having trouble tying the laces, you can watch a tutorial on YouTube.
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Loosen the laces near the top hooks: This will relieve pressure on the top of your foot.
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Tighten the laces near the bottom hooks: This will provide more support and stability for your ankle.
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Use a lace lock: This small device can be added to the laces to prevent them from loosening while you’re wearing the shoes.
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Add an insole: An insole can provide extra cushioning and support, especially if you have flat feet or high arches.
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Break in the shoes gradually: Wear the shoes for short periods of time anfangsly, and gradually increase the wear time as they become more comfortable.
- Start by threading the laces through the bottom two lace holes on one side of the shoe.
- Next, cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next two lace holes up.
- Repeat this process until you reach the top of the shoe.
- Once you reach the top, tie the laces in a knot and tuck the ends inside the shoe.
Threading the Top Eyelets
Begin by threading the laces through the top two eyelets on one side of the shoe. Cross the laces over each other, forming an “X” shape, and push them through the corresponding eyelets on the opposite side.
Now, repeat this process with the next two eyelets down on the same side. Once again, cross the laces over and thread them through the opposite eyelets. Continue this pattern until you reach the bottom of the shoe.
The following table summarizes the threading sequence for the top eyelets:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Thread laces through top two eyelets on one side. |
| 2 | Cross laces and thread through corresponding eyelets on opposite side. |
| 3 | Repeat process with next two eyelets down. |
| 4 | Continue pattern until reaching bottom of shoe. |
Criss-Crossing the Middle Eyelets
After creating the foundation, it’s time to criss-cross the middle eyelets. This iconic lacing technique is a signature element of the Jordan 4 sneaker, and it’s what sets them apart from other models. To do this correctly, start by threading the left lace through the third lace hole on the right side of the shoe. Then, guide it back through the fourth lace hole on the left side. Repeat this process, alternating sides until you reach the top of the middle row. Ensure that the laces are evenly tensioned as you go along to avoid creating any gaps or inconsistencies in the criss-cross pattern.
Once you’ve completed the middle row, continue lacing up the remaining eyelets using a standard criss-cross pattern. Thread the left lace through the fifth lace hole on the right side and the sixth lace hole on the left side. The right lace will follow suit, passing through the fifth lace hole on the left side and the sixth lace hole on the right side. Repeat this process until you reach the top of the shoe. To secure the laces, tie them firmly in a double knot at the top.
Alternative Criss-Cross Pattern
For a slightly different look, you can try an alternative criss-cross pattern. Begin by lacing the first two eyelets in a standard criss-cross manner. Then, for the third lace hole, thread the left lace through the third lace hole on the right side, but skip the fourth lace hole on the left side. Instead, pass it through the fifth lace hole on the left side. Continue this pattern, alternating sides and skipping every other lace hole until you reach the top of the middle row. Finish the lacing as usual with a double knot.
| Pattern | Description |
|—|—|
| Standard criss-cross | Lace is passed through each lace hole in a diagonal pattern. |
| Alternative criss-cross | Lace is passed through each lace hole in a diagonal pattern, but every other lace hole is skipped on one side. |
Locking the Heel Loop
To secure the heel loop, thread the laces through the bottom holes on both sides of the heel loop. Cross the laces at the back of the heel and thread them through the top holes on the opposite sides of the heel loop. This creates a cross-lace pattern that tightly locks the heel into the shoe.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the lacing technique:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Thread the laces through the bottom holes on both sides of the heel loop. |
| 2 | Cross the laces at the back of the heel. |
| 3 | Thread the laces through the top holes on the opposite sides of the heel loop. |
| 4 | Pull the laces tight to secure the heel loop. |
By following these steps, you can effectively lock the heel loop of your Jordan 4s, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit for every wear.
Tightening the Laces
Once your laces are crisscrossed, it’s time to tighten them.
. Start by pulling the laces evenly on both sides. As you pull, the lace should form a slight angle across the tongue.
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Now, take the right-hand lace and cross it over the left-hand lace. Pull the right-hand lace through the next hole up on the left-hand side. Then, take the left-hand lace and cross it over the right-hand lace, pulling it through the next hole up on the right-hand side.
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Repeat this process, crossing the laces over each other and pulling them through the next hole up on the opposite side, until you reach the top of the shoe.
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When you reach the top of the shoe, tie the laces in a double knot to secure them.
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To tighten the laces even further, you can use the lace locks on the back of the shoe.
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. To do this, simply thread the laces through the lace locks and pull them tight.
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. This will help to keep your laces from loosening throughout the day.
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Here’s a table summarizing the steps on how to tighten the laces on Jordan 4s:
| Step | Instructions |
|—|—|
| 1 | Pull the laces evenly on both sides. |
| 2 | Cross the right-hand lace over the left-hand lace and pull it through the next hole up on the left-hand side. |
| 3 | Cross the left-hand lace over the right-hand lace and pull it through the next hole up on the right-hand side. |
| 4 | Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you reach the top of the shoe. |
| 5 | Tie the laces in a double knot to secure them. |
| 6 | Use the lace locks on the back of the shoe to tighten the laces further, if desired. |
Securing the Tongue
Once you’ve threaded the laces through the loops on the tongue, it’s time to secure them. This can be done in a variety of ways, but the most common method is to tie a simple knot.
To tie a simple knot, simply cross the left lace over the right lace, then pull the left lace through the loop created by the right lace.
Tighten the knot by pulling on both laces evenly. Once the knot is tight, you can trim the excess laces if desired.
Here are some additional tips for securing the tongue of your Jordan 4s:
Lace Lock Table
| Lace Lock Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Barrel Lock | A small, cylindrical lock that slides onto the laces and tightens when turned. |
| Toggle Lock | A small, rectangular lock that slides onto the laces and tightens when pulled. |
| Cord Lock | A small, plastic lock that slides onto the laces and tightens when pulled on the cord. |
Adjusting for Comfort
Once you’ve found the lacing method that works best for you, there are a few adjustments you can make to ensure a comfortable fit:
Lace Locks
Lace locks come in a variety of styles and materials, but they all serve the same purpose: to keep your laces from coming undone. This can be especially helpful if you have narrow feet or if you like to tie your laces loosely.
To use a lace lock, simply thread the laces through the lock and then pull the laces tight. The lock will hold the laces in place, even if you bump or move around a lot.
| Type of Lace Lock | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Toggle Lace Lock | Easy to use, secure, and available in a variety of colors | Can be bulky and may not fit through all lace holes |
| Barrel Lace Lock | Low-profile and lightweight, fits through most lace holes | Can be difficult to adjust and may not be as secure as other types of lace locks |
| Slider Lace Lock | Secure and adjustable, allows for a custom fit | Can be more difficult to install than other types of lace locks |
Creative Lacing Techniques
Double-Cross Lace
Thread the laces through the bottom two eyelets on the outside of the shoe, cross them over each other, and thread them back through the same eyelets from the inside out. Repeat this process up the remaining eyelets.
Lock Lace
Thread the laces through the bottom two eyelets and tie them in a knot. Then, thread the laces through the next two eyelets, pull them tight, and thread them back through the same eyelets from the inside out. Repeat this process up the remaining eyelets.
Figure-Eight Lace
Thread the laces through the bottom two eyelets and tie them in a knot. Then, thread the laces through the next two eyelets, cross them over each other, and thread them back through the same eyelets from the inside out. Repeat this process, crossing the laces over each other for each pair of eyelets, up the remaining eyelets.
Webbing Lace
Thread the laces through the bottom two eyelets and tie them in a knot. Then, thread one lace through the next two eyelets on the inside of the shoe and the other lace through the next two eyelets on the outside of the shoe. Pull the laces tight and thread them back through the same eyelets from the inside out. Repeat this process, alternating which lace goes through the inside and outside eyelets, up the remaining eyelets.
Straight Lace
Thread the laces through the bottom two eyelets and tie them in a knot. Then, thread the laces straight up through the remaining eyelets. This is a simple and classic lacing technique that will give your Jordans a clean and understated look.
Criss-Cross Lace
Thread the laces through the bottom two eyelets and tie them in a knot. Then, thread one lace through the next two eyelets on the inside of the shoe and the other lace through the next two eyelets on the outside of the shoe. Pull the laces tight and thread them back through the same eyelets from the outside in. Repeat this process, alternating which lace goes through the inside and outside eyelets, up the remaining eyelets.
Heel Lock Lace
Thread the laces through the bottom two eyelets and tie them in a knot. Then, thread the laces through the next two eyelets, pull them tight, and thread them back through the same eyelets from the inside out. Repeat this process up the next two pairs of eyelets. For the top pair of eyelets, thread the laces through the eyelets from the inside out, but instead of pulling them tight, loop them around the back of the shoe and thread them back through the same eyelets from the inside out. Pull the laces tight to secure the heel lock.
Lace Swap
This technique involves using different colored laces to create a unique look for your Jordans. You can use two different colors of laces, or you can use multiple colors to create a more complex design. To lace swap, simply remove the original laces and thread the new laces through the eyelets in the desired pattern.
Overlapping Laces
To fix overlapping laces, start by unlacing the entire shoe. Then, lace the first hole closer to the center of the shoe. This will help to prevent the laces from overlapping when you lace them up.
Loose Laces
If your laces keep coming loose, you can try a few things. First, make sure that you are using the correct lace length. The laces should be long enough to reach the top of the shoe without being too long. Second, try double-knotting the laces. This will help to keep them in place.
Uneven Laces
If your laces are uneven, you can try re-lacing them. Start by unlacing the entire shoe. Then, lace the laces up evenly, making sure to pull them tight. This will help to create a more even look.
Lace Bite
Lace bite is a common problem that occurs when the laces rub against the top of your foot. To prevent lace bite, you can try a few things. First, make sure that you are using the correct lace length. The laces should be long enough to reach the top of the shoe without being too long. Second, try using a lace pad. This will help to protect your foot from the laces.
Toe Crease
Toe crease is a common problem that can occur when you wear Jordan 4s regularly. To prevent toe crease, you can try a few things. First, make sure that you are wearing the correct size shoe. The shoe should fit snugly but not too tightly. Second, try using a shoe tree. This will help to keep the shape of the shoe and prevent toe crease.
Heel Slip
Heel slip occurs when your foot slides out of the back of the shoe. To prevent heel slip, you can try a few things. First, make sure that you are using the correct lace length. The laces should be long enough to reach the top of the shoe without being too long.
Finishing Touches
10. Create a Custom Look
Once you’ve mastered the basic lacing techniques, you can let your creativity soar and experiment with different lacing patterns to create a unique and personalized look. Try variations like the criss-cross, zigzag, or even the intricate “lightning bolt” pattern. You can also add accessories like charms or beads to further enhance the style.
Here’s a table showcasing some popular custom lacing patterns for Jordan 4s:
| Pattern | Description |
|---|---|
| Criss-Cross | Laces are crossed over each other in a diagonal fashion. |
| Zigzag | Laces are laced in a zigzag pattern, creating a striking visual effect. |
| Lightning Bolt | Laces are laced in a shape resembling a lightning bolt, adding a touch of flair. |
| Over-Under | Laces are threaded over and under the top lace loops, creating a unique and secure hold. |
11. Trim the Excess
Once you’ve finished lacing, trim any excess lace beyond the top lace holes. This will give your Jordan 4s a clean and polished appearance.
12. Tighten the Laces
To ensure a secure fit, gently tighten the laces. Pull on both ends evenly and adjust as needed for optimal comfort and support.
How to Lace Jordan 4s Professionally
Jordan 4s are a classic sneaker that can be dressed up or down. They’re also one of the most popular sneakers on the market, so it’s important to know how to lace them properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to lace Jordan 4s like a pro:
People Also Ask
What is the best way to lace Jordan 4s?
The best way to lace Jordan 4s is to use the “straight lacing” method. This method involves threading the laces through the lace holes in a straight line, from the bottom of the shoe to the top.
How do you lace Jordan 4s for a snug fit?
To lace Jordan 4s for a snug fit, you can use the “heel lock” method. This method involves threading the laces through the bottom two lace holes on one side of the shoe, then crossing the laces over each other and threading them through the next two lace holes up. Repeat this process until you reach the top of the shoe, then tie the laces in a knot and pull them tight.
How do you lace Jordan 4s for a loose fit?
To lace Jordan 4s for a loose fit, you can use the “criss-cross” method. This method involves threading the laces through the bottom two lace holes on one side of the shoe, then crossing the laces over each other and threading them through the next two lace holes up. Repeat this process until you reach the top of the shoe, then tie the laces in a knot and leave them loose.
